… into an immersive, highly creative world that could easily inspire fanfiction.

Ni Ni breathes life into Ye Liuxi’s character, an amnesiac seeking answers to her identity and past. Ni Ni’s charisma and on-screen presence is undeniable--an explosive force to be reckoned with. Bai Yu plays her level-headed counterpart, Chang Dong, a mature and intelligent guide haunted by disaster and loss. Sparks fly when they’re together. Along the way, more characters join them and add a touch of humor and absurdity.

The initial episodes introduce the characters and the world slowly but surely. Viewers begin to learn about the fantasy world along with Ye Liuxi as clues lead her to Chang Dong, then into the desert, and finally through Yumen Pass and into the parallel world. The secondary world is so incredibly rich and imaginative that it left me eagerly anticipating what else the writer could conjure. From salt monsters and shadow puppet gnats to a saran wrapping anti-theft guardian, it’s a trove brimming with creativity that would delight any fantasy lover.

Unfortunately and perhaps in an attempt to appeal to a general audience, there’s a fair amount of hand-holding to introduce the fantastical elements, mainly through a token but beloved character--a sorcerer--that conveniently info dumps. Not only does this hinder the pacing, but it also robs viewers the opportunity to see this new world unfold more organically.

The show also botches two crucial elements: the villain and the climax. The final act deflates like a balloon and missed opportunities abound. While loose ends are resolved, they’re done in an underwhelming fashion. Long Zhi, played by Meng Ziyi, could have been a truly formidable villain but instead comes across as a hollow shell and an empty promise … partly because of MZY’s acting and partly because of the role. There’s also no true final confrontation between Long Zhi and Ye Liuxi, which could’ve been a battle for the ages between two fierce females.

This drama had the potential to be truly epic and left me yearning for what could’ve been, especially since censorship issues may have hindered the show. Criticisms aside, if you’re unsure about watching, please give it a shot and you might find yourself pleasantly surprised by all the hidden gems this show has to offer.